Summer in Idaho offers an array of outdoor adventures, from the serene beauty of its lakes and rivers to the rugged excitement of its mountain trails. Whether you're kayaking, rock climbing, or simply enjoying a picnic in one of the state's stunning parks, there’s no better way to enhance your experience than with locally crafted portable wine. 

What is Idaho Portable Wine?

Idaho portable wines can’t be bottled up! These wines come in various forms, including canned wines, spritzers, ciders and wine pouches, each designed to bring convenience and enjoyment to your excursions. But the benefits of portable wine go way beyond convenience. You don’t need to worry about fragile bottles or corkscrews – just pop open a can or pour from a pouch and enjoy!

Spritzers have been gaining attention over recent years for their drinkability, especially during the summer or warmer weather. A spritzer is a chilled, tall drink that’s typically made by mixing wine with carbonated water or sparkling wine. Canned wines offer the full flavor of traditional bottled wine but in a compact, easy-to-carry format. Wine pouches, typically containing 1.5 liters which is equivalent to two bottles of wine, are ideal for sharing and ensure you have enough to last through your adventure.

Pairing 10 Portable Idaho Wines With Summer Activities

There's a flavor for every adventure, and no two portable wines look, feel, or taste the same, ensuring that each outing can be paired perfectly with a unique wine experience. That’s why we’re excited to share 10 of the most unique portable wine flavors paired with the most loved outdoor activities throughout Idaho.

1. Pinot Gris Can + Fly Fishing

Sawtooth Winery’s canned Pinot Gris pays homage to the local time-honored tradition of fly fishing and to the nearby rivers that surround this winemaking region. The 400-acre vineyards surrounding Sawtooth Winery have gained increasing national acclaim for varietals such as Pinot Gris. Inside every can lies the spirit of adventure, the mystique of Idaho, and the natural beauty that rests within the snow-capped mountains and rivers of the Snake River Valley.

Crisp and clean like the rivers of the Snake River Valley, Pinot Gris is the perfect complement to a day spent fly fishing in Idaho’s waters. Containing aromas of citrus zest and honeysuckle with flavors of lime and fresh pineapple, this Pinot Gris is the perfect companion to celebrate with after reeling in your next big catch! The wine's light acidity and fruit-forward profile are ideal for relaxing after casting lines and enjoying the tranquility of nature.

2. Jalepeño Wine Lemonade Pouch + Backyard Cookout

Despite the sour appearance, Jalapeno wine lemonade from Potter Wines is slightly spicy with a balanced light sweetness. Besides the obvious ability to peak curiosity, this wine is sure to tingle your taste buds and appetite. Use it when cooking, sipping outside, or pairing with a meal, its uses are limited only by your imagination! The winemakers at Potter Wines had a vision years ago of a wine that would raise eyebrows, pep-up palettes and make meals sizzle. Now, these Jalapeno wines have become a kitchen staple for many Idahoans.

This unique wine lemonade pairs incredibly with chicken, shrimp, fish, or lamb, delivering the entertaining twist needed to turn ordinary occasions into unforgettable escapes. Its spicy kick and refreshing lemonade base make it certain to be the talk of every get-together, adding excitement and flavor to any backyard cookout.

3. Blueberry Wine Spritzer  + Paddleboarding

The Blueberry Wine Spritzer from Potter Wines is the perfect combination of white wine, real blueberry juice and sparkling water. The winemakers at Potter Wines strive to leave an innovative thumbprint on everything they produce and even source their ingredients from local farmers.

Who doesn’t love a spritzer on a hot summer day? The fruity and refreshing Blueberry Wine Spritzer is perfect for a day of paddleboarding on Idaho’s beautiful lakes. Its light and effervescent nature makes it easy to enjoy on a sunny day after gliding across the water. Enjoy a bubbly burst of berry flavor to reward yourself after a long day of paddling.

4. Della’s Ghost Riesling Pouch + Floating Down the Boise River

Della’s Ghost Riesling from Holesinsky Vineyard & Winery is a 1.5 liter pouch filled with irresistible white wine. This Riesling is blended with Viognier to create sweet flavors of honey and nectar while finishing crisp and smooth. And nothing says summer like cold white wine filled with notes of fresh Florida orange peel, green apple, honeycomb, and pineapple.

Riesling is the most planted grape variety in Idaho and it pairs perfectly with a fan-favorite Idaho activity, floating down the Boise River. Riesling grapes make wines with a nice balance of flavors and zingy acidity. And while floating down the river can be a nice and easy-going activity, you’re sure to catch some twists, turns and mild rapids that will keep you on your toes. So reward yourself with a wine pouch after a day of floating!

5. Electric Youth Chardonnay + Rock Climbing

Electric Youth from Split Rail Winery is a liquid ray of eternal sunshine. This canned dry Chardonnay comes in a convenient 4-pack that radiates dreamy fruit. While Chardonnay grapes create many different styles in Idaho, the Electric Youth is breaking the mold.

Known for its spunky style and adventurous nature, Electric Youth was designed for those who like to live on the edge. Its refreshing acidity and complex profile complement the rugged beauty of Idaho's rock formations, pairing perfectly with any rock climbing adventure. Whether you’re conquering a challenging new route or enjoying a scenic view, bring a pack of Electric Youth to celebrate reaching new heights.

6. Double Captain White + Boating

In the 2024 Idaho Wine & Cider Competition, 3100 Cellars won the prestigious award of Best Sparkling Wine. So without further ado, we’d like to introduce you to the Double Captain White! Also known as “Double Captain” and the perfect river drink, this award-winner has two glasses of bubbles in can form. The heartfelt story behind this wine is one of true friendship and a supportive community; two things that aren’t hard to come by in the Idaho wine industry.

The story behind this wine is as adventurous and inspiring as the boating trips on Idaho's beautiful lakes and rivers. When an equipment failure jeopardized their entire 2022 vintage, 3100 Cellars received invaluable help from their friends at Barbarian Brewing, who lent their expertise and connections to save the wine. This collaboration and support are akin to the camaraderie and teamwork needed in boating, where having a reliable co-pilot can make all the difference. So after a day boating on the water, raise a can to your co-pilot and enjoy some refreshing sips of this sparkling white wine.

7. Sparkling Syrah Wine Seltzer + Summer Picnic

As Holesinsky Vineyard and Winery says, their sparkling Syrah wine seltzer is “the first official mic-drop seltzer in the industry.” Their 100% Holesinsky Estate Syrah is cold-fermented in stainless steel to accentuate the bright, young, flavors of the fruit. Blended with the purest sparkling Idaho mountain spring water, this all-natural IdaSeltzer contains zero city water, artificial colors, or artificial flavors.

Bring this canned seltzer along for your next outdoor picnic. With no artificial ingredients, this seltzer is as natural as the picnic setting itself, pairing perfectly with the wholesome, outdoor experience of enjoying a meal in the state’s beautiful natural surroundings. The bright, young flavors of the Syrah grapes provide a delightful fruitiness that complements a variety of picnic foods, from fresh fruits to aged cheeses to grilled meats and more.

8. Alpenglow Cider + Outdoor Concerts

Alpenglow cider from Highpoint Cider, is another 2024 Idaho Wine & Cider Competition award winner! This cidery has been top ranked for three consecutive years and after tasting a few of their ciders, you’ll understand why.

As a spring and summer seasonal cider, Alpenglow is designed to be enjoyed during the warm months. With a similar flavor profile to a raspberry mojito, this cider will make you want to dance and sing with your sweetest friends. With a blend of tart raspberry, hand-picked mint, and fresh-squeezed lime, Alpenglow Cider has vibrant and lively flavors that match the festive and energetic atmosphere of a live outdoor concert.

9. Roseé Bubbles + Kayaking

Idaho wineries offer a variety of Rosé styles that perfectly complement the diverse kayaking opportunities available in Southern Idaho. Whether you’re seeking an adventurous ride through rapids or a leisurely paddle on a serene lake, our wineries have the Rosés for you!

Step out on the wild side and try a Rosé with bubbles from 3100 cellars, Split Rail Winery, and Sawtooth Winery. These sparkling Rosés are as lively as the rushing waters of Idaho’s rivers, complimenting an energetic day on the water. 

If you’re looking for a more relaxed kayaking experience with a peaceful paddle on a tranquil lake or a gentle float down a lazy river, Holesinsky’s Unicorn Rosé of Syrah may be more of your speed. With sweet notes of raspberries, watermelon, and stone fruit, this wine pouch pairs well with the calm and serene surroundings after a day kayaking on the water.

10. Uncharted Cider + Camping On The Water

Uncharted Cider from Meriwether Cider Company is an incredibly smooth semi-dry cider with flavors of oak, vanilla, and a hint of astringency. This cider is crafted to be the perfect companion for your biggest adventures. Its complex profile balances the subtle sweetness with a touch of bitterness. The smooth blend of flavors creates a cider that is both comforting and invigorating, ideal for sipping in the great outdoors.

Pair your Uncharted Cider with a camping trip on the water. If you’re looking to get off the maps and disconnect from the world for a bit, this cider is calling your name. The hints of oak and vanilla pair perfectly with the natural elements that surround you while camping, like the woody scent of the forest and the warmth of a campfire. As you sit around the campfire, sharing stories and enjoying the tranquility of nature, this smooth cider will guide your mind to uncharted places. 

With Idaho’s diverse outdoor adventures and a wide range of portable wines, your summer outings are set to be both thrilling and refreshing. Break out of the bottle and grab your favorite portable wine, head to the outdoors and make memories with each sip. Cheers!